Kathmandu: The Eighth Commerce Secretary Level Meeting (CSLM) between Nepal and Bangladesh was held in Dhaka from 13–14 January 2026 to review bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The Nepali delegation was led by Dr. Ram Prasad Ghimire, Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, while the Bangladeshi side was headed by Mahbubur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce.
The meeting reviewed progress since the 7th CSLM held in Kathmandu in April 2024. Both sides emphasized reducing trade barriers, strengthening cooperation ahead of LDC graduation, and expanding collaboration in trade, investment, connectivity, and tourism.
The two countries agreed to convene the Trade Negotiating Committee within three months to advance negotiations on the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). They also committed to harmonizing customs procedures, facilitating cross-border payments, and promoting joint investments, including in hydropower and value-chain development.
The agreed minutes were signed by both Commerce Secretaries. The ninth CSLM will be held in Kathmandu at a mutually convenient date.
